Natural Selection 2 similar games & best alternatives
Natural Selection 2
2012
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Quick resume
A fast paced multiplayer shooter that pits aliens against humans in a strategic and action-packed struggle for survival!
Global score
85/100
Genres
Action, Indie, Strategy, Shooter, Puzzle, Real Time Strategy (RTS)
Pros
- Unique fps-rts hybrid gameplay
- Strong team cooperation and leadership
- Asymmetric factions with distinct playstyles
- High skill ceiling and strategic depth
- Active community with ongoing updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new players
- Small and sometimes toxic player base
- Long loading times and optimization issues
- Limited character customization
- Requires microphone and communication
Motivations
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Autonomy4
"Players can choose to play as commander with RTS control or as individual FPS units, allowing high personal freedom in roles and decisions."
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Competence4
"High skill ceiling with steep learning curve; players must master FPS aiming, RTS commanding, and team coordination."
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Competition4
"Strong competitive multiplayer focus with ranked servers and skill-based matchmaking; players compare performance."
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Continuation3
"Many players report long sessions and habitual play, with some having thousands of hours invested."
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Cooperation5
"Teamwork is essential; players must coordinate closely with commander and teammates to succeed."
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Creativity2
"Some creativity in tactical decisions and commander strategies; limited character customization."
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Domination3
"Competitive environment with some reports of toxic behavior and harsh treatment of new players."
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Escapism4
"Players use the game as intense distraction and stress relief through immersive sci-fi combat."
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Expectation-3
"Most players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment rather than obligation."
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Experimenting3
"Players explore different roles, factions, and strategies; game encourages tactical experimentation."
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Exploration2
"Maps are large and complex, encouraging discovery of tactical positions and routes."
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Expression-2
"Limited character customization; mostly standardized faction appearances and preset aesthetics."
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Fantasy4
"Strong sci-fi fantasy setting with aliens and marines, asymmetric factions and unique lifeforms."
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Fellowship4
"Community is close-knit and cooperative; players form social bonds through teamwork."
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Growth4
"Players develop skills over time; game has steep learning curve and rewards mastery."
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Health-4
"Typical sedentary gaming; no physical activity involved."
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Idle-3
"Requires continuous attention and focus during matches; not a casual or idle experience."
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Intimacy2
"Some social interaction and camaraderie, but mostly team-based rather than close personal relationships."
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Leadership5
"Commander role involves leading, managing resources, and directing team strategy."
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Progression4
"In-game progression through upgrades, resource control, and evolving alien lifeforms."
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Relaxation-2
"Gameplay is tense and challenging, with moments of adrenaline and stress."
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Sensation3
"Engaging audio-visual sci-fi atmosphere with suspenseful combat and effects."
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Status3
"Recognition through skill, rank, and community reputation is valued."
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Story1
"Basic sci-fi narrative background; gameplay is mostly session-based without deep story immersion."
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Strategy5
"Strong strategic and tactical planning required, especially for commanders."
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Thrill4
"High tension and suspense from asymmetric combat and team coordination."
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Value4
"Players report high value for time invested due to unique gameplay and replayability."
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Violence3
"Combat and destruction are core gameplay elements, with shooting and alien attacks."
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Survival3
"Players must avoid death and manage resources to maintain control and survive."
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Last update: 06/03/2026